DNA gene chips and novel software used to describe kidney d...( iferation with many genes involved in D...)

Peaking at the mid-embryonic stage, this group included continued expression of master regulatory genes and a marked production of extracellular matrix (ECM) genes, fibrous proteins outside cells that interact with each other and play a key role in determining the shape and activities of the cell.

In newborn rats, the researchers witnessed a number of retrotransposon RNA genes, which are retroviruses that long ago inserted themselves in DNA and were then passed on to future generations as a footprint of a past event. Stuart notes that the function of these genes is unknown, but they may be involved in the stress of birth.

Following birth, the developing kidney genes focused on energy production and the transport mechanisms that move substances such as toxins, water and urea from one compartment to another.

Active genes in the adult rat included a mix of transporter genes not previously seen, detoxification enzymes, and additional genes involved in immune recognition and defense against oxidative stress.

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Contact: Sue Pondrom
spondrom@ucsd.edu
619-543-6163
University of California - San Diego
30-Apr-2001